What is our bilingual program?

Our Bilingual Preschool Program teaches language and academic skills in both English and Spanish. Children learn reading, writing, and math skills in both English and Spanish. They are encouraged to play and respond to instructions in both languages.

When is it offered?

All of our classes are taught in both languages. You may cho﻿﻿ose to enroll your child 2, 3, or 5 days per week from 9:00am-12:00pm.

Who benefits from bilingual preschool?

Everyone!

Research has shown children under four years old learn languages easier than adults. By stimulating the brain to produce a variety of linguistic sounds early on, you are making it more possible for a second language to be learned later in life.

Think of where our country's diverse population is headed. It is projected that by 2050 29% of our population will be Latino. According to California's Governor Jerry Brown Latino's were projected to become the largest single racial/ethnic group in their state by March of 2014. This trend is continuing throughout our country. By the time our children are job-seeking adults it will be imperative they are able to read, write, and speak in both English and Spanish. Imagine the job opportunities available to bilingual adults, and the limited opportunities left for those who are not bilingual. There are tons of interesting facts about our growing Latino population and how they contribute to our economy. You can read more here.

Will my child still learn English Academic skills?

Absolutely! All lessons are meant to promote reading, writing, and language development in both English and Spanish. Group lessons, songs, individual lessons, even our centers are strategically planned to provide a specific learning experience.

Here's what some of the research says:

"Over the years, many policy makers, educators, and parents have supported English-only preschool programs for English language learners (ELLs), based on the supposition that greater exposure to the English language would result in faster and more complete mastery (Genesee, 2008).Recent research (Barnett, Yarosz, Thomas, Jung, & Blanco, 2007), however, has shown that:

ELLs in Spanish/English dual language programs can make gains in English comparable to those of children in English-only programs.

Both ELLs andnative English speakers tend to demonstrate significant growth in Spanish as a result of dual language instruction, resulting in children who are truly bilingual.

Children in dual language programs can experience academic gains, including gains in early literacy skills, comparable to those of children in English-only programs."